Latest News and Headlines on Iran vs Isreal War
US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has announced that the United States plans to impose new sanctions on Iran in response to its recent attack on Israel. Yellen highlighted Iran's oil exports as a potential target for sanctions and emphasized that Iran's actions pose a threat to stability in the Middle East.
She stated that the Treasury Department will utilize its sanctions authority and collaborate with allies to counter Iran's destabilizing activities. Yellen's statements come after Israel's call for sanctions on Iran's missile program. The US has been employing financial sanctions to isolate Iran and impede its support for proxy groups and involvement in conflicts like Russia's war in Ukraine.
Portugal summons Iranian ambassador
The Portuguese foreign ministry has summoned the Iranian ambassador to express Portugal's condemnation of Tehran's recent attack on Israel and to demand the release of the Portuguese-flagged container ship, MSC Aries, which was seized by Iran on April 13th. The ministry stated that it will await the outcome of this formal action and consider any further steps.
Additionally, an Israeli-affiliated vessel seized by Iran shortly before the drone and missile attacks on Saturday has been observed in Iranian waters over 120 miles away from its last reported location. The MSC Aries, a container ship, was last tracked sailing off the coast of the UAE en route to India but was later spotted near two Iranian islands in the Strait of Hormuz. Satellite imagery confirms its presence, with the vessel's length and features matching those of the MSC Aries.
The ship is currently believed to have 25 crew members, predominantly Indian nationals. The Indian government has expressed its concern to Iran regarding the situation of these crew members.
NGOs call for 'immediate' action to protect civilians
Thirteen non-governmental organizations (NGOs), such as the International Rescue Committee, Save The Children, and Norwegian Refugee Council, have jointly expressed concerns about the unprecedented escalation of tensions in the Middle East.
They warn that these escalating tensions pose a significant risk to the lives of millions of civilians in the region. The NGOs are urging for increased political and diplomatic efforts to mitigate civilian harm and prevent the situation from further deteriorating. They emphasize the importance of all parties involved and those with influence over them to prioritize de-escalation measures immediately.
Furthermore, the group is advocating for an immediate and lasting ceasefire in Gaza to alleviate further human suffering.
Iran's attack on Israel offers Netanyahu a lifeline
Recently, Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faced significant pressure, but Iran's unprecedented direct attack on Israel provided him with a much-needed lifeline. With extensive military cooperation from the US and other Western allies, Israel successfully intercepted over 300 drones and missiles launched by Iran. Even King Abdullah of Jordan, a staunch critic of Israel's actions in Gaza, saw Jordan's air force participate in the operation, intercepting projectiles aimed at Israel.
The demand for imposing conditions on military aid to Israel was replaced by strong expressions of solidarity with the country. This turn of events has opened up new political opportunities for Prime Minister Netanyahu, temporarily shifting attention away from Gaza.
However, while the pressure on the prime minister may have eased momentarily, it has not disappeared entirely. Future actions by Israel could potentially intensify this pressure once again.
Israel says Iran will not get off 'scot-free' after attack
Israel's military spokesperson, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, has affirmed that Iran will face consequences for its recent missile and drone strikes. Speaking at the Julis military base in southern Israel, he stated that Israel cannot ignore such aggression, emphasizing that Iran will not escape punishment for its actions. Hagari added that Israel will respond according to its own timing and choice.
He displayed what he claimed to be the remains of one of the intercepted missiles from Iran's attack, reportedly retrieved from the Dead Sea. On Saturday, Iran launched over 300 drones and missiles towards Israel, the majority of which were intercepted by Israel and its allies.
Putin urges restraint in call with Iranian president
Russian President Vladimir Putin has cautioned against further escalation in the Middle East, warning of potentially catastrophic consequences, during a phone conversation with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi.
The Kremlin, in a statement regarding the call, noted Putin's emphasis on the importance of all parties exercising reasonable restraint to avoid triggering a new round of confrontation that could have dire consequences for the entire region.
The call was reportedly initiated by Iran, and it underscores the close alliance between the two countries. Additionally, there are reports suggesting that Russia is collaborating with Iran to enhance its modern air defense systems and fighter jets, likely in exchange for Tehran's military support in Russia's conflict with Ukraine.
